Byline: Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has ordered an immediate investigation into allegations that officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) extorted ₦5.2 million from a group of young men travelling from Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, to Akure, Ondo State.
The allegations surfaced through a viral post by Oluyemi Fasipe on 21 April 2025, prompting swift action from the minister.
In a statement issued on April 22, Tunji-Ojo emphasised that any officer found guilty would face severe consequences, stating, “We will not tolerate any form of misconduct from our security agencies. We are building a paramilitary that is disciplined, professional and serves Nigeria and Nigerians with all sense of dignity and patriotism. On this case, we will see that justice is upheld and ensure that security personnel serve with forthrightness.”
The investigation aims to ensure accountability and maintain public trust in the NSCDC.
The incident reflects broader concerns about corruption in Nigeria, as highlighted by the 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), where Nigeria scored 25 out of 100, improving slightly from 24 in 2022, and ranked 145 out of 180 countries, up from 150. Auwal Ibrahim Musa, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), attributed the persistent corruption to electoral, judicial, and security sector issues.
He noted, “Nigeria’s 2023 general elections dashed the hopes of Nigerians who were hoping for a better electoral process despite the passing of the 2022 Electoral Act.”
Musa cited the European Union Observation Mission’s report, which stated that the 2023 elections, despite assurances from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), “did not ensure a well-run, transparent, and inclusive democratic process.”